Job Description
Freight Forwarding Operations Manager Multimodal | Customs | Senior Operational Leadership
About the Role
We are a dynamic, forward-thinking freight forwarding business that does things differently. Known for challenging traditional models and raising service expectations, we are building an operation designed for speed, clarity, and accountability.
We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to take full ownership of multimodal freight operations and customs compliance, while leading and shaping a high-performing operations function.
This role is suited to professionals who are already accountable for end-to-end multimodal operations and customs compliance, either in a formal Operations Manager role or in a position where they currently carry equivalent operational responsibility.
The successful candidate will combine proven operational delivery with a hands-on leadership style. You will lead day-to-day execution, step into the detail where required, and have full responsibility for the structure, performance, and development of the operational team as the business grows.
Key Responsibilities
Multimodal Freight Operations
• Lead end-to-end management of air, ocean (FCL/LCL), road, and rail shipments
• Plan routings, book carriers, and manage intermodal handovers
• Track shipments, manage exceptions, and resolve delays proactively
• Step directly into operations during peak periods or critical shipments
Customs & Trade Compliance
• Oversee import and export customs clearance activities
• Ensure accurate HS classification, valuation, and origin documentation
• Coordinate with customs brokers and regulatory authorities
• Manage inspections, audits, holds, and post-clearance issues
• Maintain compliance with evolving customs and trade regulations
Operational Leadership & Development
• Own day-to-day operational performance and service delivery
• Set priorities, workflows, and performance expectations
• Remain hands-on with detailed or critical tasks where required
• Act as the escalation point for complex operational or customer issues
• Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes, and controls
Customer & Partner Engagement
• Communicate clearly and proactively with customers
• Build strong relationships with carriers, warehouses, and customs partners
• Support commercial activity with operational and customs expertise
• Make decisions with a full supply-chain perspective
Senior Ownership & Responsibility
• Hold senior ownership of the entire operations function
• Shape the structure, processes, and capability of the operations team
• Lead hiring decisions, role design, and team development
• Continuously evolve how the business delivers freight
Skills & Experience
• Proven experience delivering freight forwarding operations in a multimodal environment
• Strong working knowledge of customs clearance and trade compliance
• Demonstrable responsibility for operational decision-making and service delivery
• Experience leading, mentoring, and developing operational teams
• Confident, practical decision-maker with a hands-on, delivery-focused mindset
* Title is less important than scope: applicants must demonstrate current or recent accountability for operational outcomes within a freight forwarding environment.